Rockford celebrates Independence Day

Rockford’s annual Fourth of July celebration, which began Tuesday, June 29, with the Rockford Concert Band at the Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, will feature racing at Rockford Speedway, more music at the Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, a flag retirement ceremony, a motorcycle parade, the Fourth of July Parade, and, of course, one of the largest fireworks displays in Illinois.

Following is the full schedule of events for Rockford’s Fourth of July celebration:

Rockford's Fourth of July Parade begins at 7 p.m., Sunday, July 4, at Seventh Street and Sixth Avenue and ends near Davis Park on Wyman Street. The red line on the map above marks the parade route. Map courtesy of www.rockfordfireandice.com

8:30 a.m.—Patriotic Breakfast sponsored by the Rockford Fourth of July Committee and Stone Eagle Tavern. A salute to area veterans and their families. Free continental breakfast to the first 1,000 people. Keynote speaker Dr. Michael Marino. Music Shell in Sinnissippi Park.

Noon—Declarations to end violence and prejudice. State and Main, Rockford.

5 p.m.—SkyConcert gates open inside Davis Park, downtown Rockford. The Indepedence Day Bash will headline the Moonlight Jazz Orchestra, along with Jodi Beach singing the National Anthem. Join the fun with entertainment and the best view to see the incredible fireworks show. Food and beverage will be available.

6:50 p.m.—Motorcycle parade.

7 p.m.—Rockford Fourth of July Parade. Begins at Seventh Street and Sixth Avenue in downtown Rockford. Ends near Davis Park.

9:30 p.m.—Fireworks show begins. One of the largest fireworks shows in the state of Illinois synchronized to music over Davis Park in downtown Rockford.